Kevin Bishop (864) 250-1417

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) made this statement on news Deputy Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter will leave his office in December. Graham is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

"It was with great sadness I learned Deputy Secretary of Defense Carter will be stepping down in December. He has been a steady, consistent and effective voice for our men and women in uniform. He also has great respect and admiration from senators on both sides of the aisle.

"During his time as Deputy Secretary, we have faced some of the most challenging times in the department's history. Ash Carter was always there providing exceptional leadership at a time when it mattered. He will truly be missed."

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